Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon rank #1 in Best Paying Jobs. Jobs are ranked according to their ability to offer an elusive mix of factors.

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An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialized dental professional who is trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions related to the mouth, jaw, and facial structures. They are experts in performing surgical procedures on the mouth, jaws, face, and neck, and often work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals such as dentists, orthodontists, and plastic surgeons to provide comprehensive care for their patients. These surgeons undergo extensive training and education, including completion of dental school, a residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery, and often additional fellowship training in specialized areas such as craniofacial surgery, trauma surgery, or cosmetic surgery. They are required to have a deep understanding of the anatomy and function of the mouth and face, as well as the ability to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions and injuries that may affect these areas. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform a variety of surgical procedures, including tooth extractions, dental implant placement, corrective jaw surgery, treatment of facial trauma, removal of tumors or cysts in the jaw or facial bones, and treatment of congenital facial deformities. They also play a crucial role in providing care for patients with oral cancer, often working closely with oncologists and other specialists to develop comprehensive treatment plans. In addition to surgical procedures, oral and maxillofacial surgeons also provide non-surgical treatments such as the management of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, facial pain, and dental infections. They are skilled in using advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans and 3D imaging to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning, and often work in hospital settings to provide care for patients with complex medical and surgical needs. Overall, oral and maxillofacial surgeons play a crucial role in improving the oral health and quality of life for their patients.

To become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, one must first complete a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or pre-med. After completing their undergraduate studies, aspiring surgeons must then attend dental school and obtain a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Following dental school, individuals interested in specializing in oral and maxillofacial surgery must complete a four to six-year residency program in the field. During this residency, they will receive extensive training in surgical techniques, anesthesia, and the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of oral and facial conditions.In addition to completing the necessary education and training, individuals seeking to become oral and maxillofacial surgeons must also obtain a state license to practice dentistry and a board certification from the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. This certification demonstrates that the surgeon has met the highest standards of training and expertise in the field.Overall, becoming an oral and maxillofacial surgeon requires a significant commitment to education and training, as well as a passion for providing comprehensive surgical care to patients with oral and facial conditions. Upon completing the necessary requirements, individuals can pursue a rewarding career in this specialized field of dentistry.